Accelerated Carbide Spheroidization and Refinement (ASR) ofAISI 1042 Steel

摘要

The present research was focused on improving mechanical properties of the structural carbon steel AISI 1042. The microstructure of this material can be transformed by Accelerated Carbide Spheroidization and Refinement (ASR) process. It increases the proof stress and ultimate tensile strength and, at the same time, the plasticity and toughness. A rapid thermal treatment process using critical temperature Acl was developed, which leads to the ASR phenomenon in AISI 1042 steel taking place within four or five minutes. This thermal treatment is able to significantly improve the mechanical properties of the steel AISI 1042 without conventional quenching and tempering. Thus, it is a promising technology providing time and energy savings.